EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2025–2026 | Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships in Switzerland

Are you an academically talented student aiming to pursue a fully funded master's degree in one of Europe’s leading institutions? The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2025–2026 offer a unique opportunity for exceptional international students to study at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Switzerland, a globally recognized hub of innovation, research, and technology.

Each year, EPFL awards a limited number of Excellence Fellowships to top-ranked students from around the world, providing financial support and recognition to help them pursue master's programs in cutting-edge disciplines. Backed either by EPFL directly or through prestigious private and public partnerships, these fellowships are competitive, merit-based, and designed to attract the brightest minds to Switzerland.

This detailed blog post will walk you through the fellowship structure, eligibility, scholarship coverage, application process, and tips to maximize your chances of winning this highly coveted scholarship.

About EPFL – École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

Located in Lausanne, Switzerland, EPFL is one of the two Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology and consistently ranks among the top 20 universities worldwide in science and engineering. With students, staff, and faculty from over 120 nationalities, EPFL is known as Europe’s most cosmopolitan technical university.

EPFL focuses on three main pillars:

• World-class education in STEM, humanities, and interdisciplinary fields

• Groundbreaking research with real-world impact

• Technology transfer and partnerships with industry and governments

The university is also closely connected with the global academic community, making it an ideal destination for international students seeking to develop both academically and professionally.

EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2025–2026: Program Overview

• Host Institution: EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne)

• Study Location: Lausanne, Switzerland

• Level of Study: Master’s Degree Programs

• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded (Merit-Based)

• Scholarship Provider: EPFL and partner foundations/companies

• Duration: 3 semesters (for 90-credit programs) or 4 semesters (for 120-credit programs)

• Application Deadlines:

  • March 31, (for Autumn intake)

  • December 15, (for Spring intake)

Eligible Master’s Fields at EPFL

EPFL offers master's programs across 8 faculties and schools, including:

• School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering

• School of Engineering

• School of Computer and Communication Sciences

• School of Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)

• School of Life Sciences

• College of Management of Technology

• College of Humanities

• EPFL Middle East (for Energy Management & Sustainability)

Applicants can only apply to one Master’s program per application cycle.

EPFL Excellence Fellowship Coverage

The EPFL Excellence Fellowship provides generous financial and academic support to successful applicants:

• CHF 10,000 per semester (up to CHF 40,000 for four semesters)

• Reservation of student accommodation (assistance in securing housing)

• Certificate of Excellence upon completion of the program

• Recognition and mentorship throughout the program
  
  Note: Fellowship holders must cover remaining expenses themselves, including rent, food, and transportation.

The fellowship amount is paid directly to students and is intended to support living and study expenses.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must have an outstanding academic record (typically top 10–15% of their class)

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a field related to the chosen EPFL program

• Applicants who already hold a Master’s degree in the same or similar field are not eligible

• Must apply for full-time enrollment in an EPFL Master's program

• Must provide three academic references

• All documents must be submitted in English, French, German, or Italian (translations required if in another language)

There is no restriction based on nationality — students from all countries are encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must upload all required documents via the EPFL online application portal:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

2. Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts (certified copies)

3. University graduation reports (with grades and credits)

4. Cover Letter (max 1000 words) explaining academic background and future goals

5. Three letters of recommendation from academic referees (uploaded by professors themselves via the system)

6. Copy of passport or national identity card

7. Proof of language proficiency (if required by program)

8. Legalized translations of all documents not in English, French, German, or Italian

Applicants who are already enrolled in another Swiss Federal Institute of Technology or applying for a Master's in the same field as their Bachelor's may face limitations. Check with EPFL for clarification.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Choose Your Program

Explore eligible EPFL Master’s programs via the official portal.

Step 2: Register Online

Access the EPFL online application platform and create your account.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Fill in all academic, personal, and program-related details. You can apply only to one program per cycle.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Ensure all documents are uploaded in the correct format and language. Triple-check accuracy.

Step 5: Nominate Referees

Enter the contact details of your three referees. They will receive instructions to upload their letters directly.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit your complete application before March 31 or December 15, depending on your intended start date.

EPFL does not charge an application fee, but only complete and well-prepared applications will be considered.

Application Timeline

Application Round	Deadline	Intake Season
Round 1	December 15	Spring 2026
Round 2	March 31	Fall 2026

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional documentation.

Why Apply for the EPFL Excellence Fellowship?

• Study at one of the top technical universities in Europe

• Engage in cutting-edge research and innovation

• Collaborate with world-class faculty and global peers

• Live in one of the safest and most beautiful countries in the world

• Enhance your academic profile and career opportunities worldwide

Official Website

To learn more or begin your application, visit:
👉 EPFL Excellence Fellowships – Official Page

The EPFL Excellence Fellowships 2025–2026 are an outstanding opportunity for bright, motivated, and globally minded students to pursue master’s studies in one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions. With generous financial support, a rich academic environment, and a diverse international community, EPFL provides the perfect platform for launching a successful academic or research career.

If you have an exceptional academic track record and a vision for your future, start preparing your documents now — and apply before the deadline. Switzerland is waiting to welcome your excellence.

Official Website